Carey, ID
Population 1,197 · Idaho
About Carey, ID
Carey is a small town located in Idaho with a population of 1,197 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $50,938 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.6 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Carey features a median home value of $209,200, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Carey in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $964, 17% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 275 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (189 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (56 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Carey shows an unemployment rate of 7.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Carey have an average one-way commute time of 27.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.2% of Carey residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 49.5% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 29.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Carey, ID
Compared to national averages, Carey has a median household income of $50,938 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $209,200, which is 15% below the national median. Monthly rent at $964 is 17% below the US average of $1,163. Within Idaho, Carey's income is 22% below the state average of $65,190, and home values are 24% below the state median of $274,721.
Why Live in Carey, ID?
Carey offers affordable housing with a median home value of $209,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $964/month, and a low poverty rate of 5.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,938) that falls below the national average. However, Carey’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Carey has a population of 1,197 with a median age of 29.6 years. Compare Carey with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Idaho.
Similar Cities Near Carey
Cities in Idaho with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hagerman | 1,198 | $59,250 | $189,600 | Compare |
| Groveland | 1,204 | $71,268 | $362,800 | Compare |
| Robie Creek | 1,240 | $117,946 | $524,400 | Compare |
| Greenleaf | 1,152 | $64,375 | $339,600 | Compare |
| Marsing | 1,245 | $57,973 | $245,000 | Compare |
| Cottonwood | 1,138 | $56,250 | $206,800 | Compare |
| Wallace | 1,127 | $50,526 | $219,200 | Compare |
| Riverside | 1,126 | $103,125 | $241,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Idaho
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Carey With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Carey
What is the population of Carey, ID?
The population of Carey, ID is 1,197 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Idaho.
What is the median household income in Carey?
The median household income in Carey, ID is $50,938 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Carey?
The median home value in Carey, ID is $209,200, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Carey?
The median monthly rent in Carey, ID is $964, which is 17% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Carey?
The unemployment rate in Carey, ID is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Carey, ID a good place to live?
Carey offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,197 and a median age of 29.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Carey, ID?
19.2% of residents in Carey aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Carey?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Carey, ID: median home value is $209,200 (15% below national), median rent is $964/month, and median household income is $50,938. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.1x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Carey?
The poverty rate in Carey, ID is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Carey, ID?
Carey's population is 49.5% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 29.5% of residents are foreign-born.